Polymer Chemistry Lab

In Polymer Chemistry Lab (PCL) we carry out R&D and knowledge transfer activities in close collaboration with companies and institutions within the scientific and technological community. Our mission is to promote innovation in the field of polymeric materials, linking cutting-edge scientific research to practical industrial applications.

What we do

The PCL is a laboratory dedicated to the synthesis, characterisation and processing of polymeric materials. Our portfolio of polymers is extensive and includes: polyolefins, polystyrenes, poly(meth)acrylates, polyacrylamides, unsaturated polyesters, polyvinyls, poly (ester amides), polycarbonates, polyurethanes, stimulus-responsive polymers (pH, temperature, light) and cationic antimicrobial polymers.

The following areas of research are particularly noteworthy:

  • Development and optimisation of controlled radical polymerisation methods, with a focus on more sustainable processes, including the use of green solvents, low catalyst concentrations, and faster, more efficient polymerisation kinetics;
  • Development of new bio-based polymers (bioresins) for use in additive manufacturing (3D printing and bioprinting);
  • Synthesis and modification (post-polymerisation) of polymers to introduce specific functionalities and side groups at the ends of the polymer chains, using methods suitable for industrial-scale application;
  • Synthesis of sustainable polymers (bio-based and biodegradable) on an industrial scale.

Our links with the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Coimbra (DEQ) and the Centre for Mechanical, Materials and Process Engineering (CEMMPRE), as well as our collaboration with other departments at the University of Coimbra and various national and international universities, strengthen the scientific and technological capacity of our activities.

Areas of expertise

PCL specialises in the synthesis of new polymers from renewable and biodegradable resources with enhanced structural and functional properties. We work in partnership with various industries to provide bio-based materials for a wide range of sectors, including the automotive, food, agricultural, paint and photovoltaic panel industries, amongst others. Our mission is to develop sustainable technologies that improve quality of life whilst minimising environmental impact. 

Research areas:

  • The development of new bio-based and/or biodegradable polymeric materials (such as unsaturated polyesters, poly(ester amides), polycarbonates, epoxy resins, polyurethanes, amongst others) to replace polymers produced from fossil-based monomers (non-biodegradable materials);
  • Detailed characterisation of new bio-based and biodegradable polymeric materials 

The PCL has been involved in a number of projects research projects aimed at replacing non-biodegradable materials with biodegradable and bio-based alternatives, contributing to the development of more sustainable solutions in line with the principles of the circular economy.

Research areas:

  • Synthesis of natural and synthetic polymers from renewable resources, with the aim of developing biodegradable materials that enable more efficient recycling cycles, whilst ensuring mechanical and thermal properties suitable for industrial requirements;
  •  Synthesis of polyesters and poly(ester amides) based on α-amino acids and α-hydroxy acids for use in the pharmaceutical industry, such as drug delivery systems, and in tissue engineering. 

Contacts

  • +351 239 700 900
  • pcl@ipn.pt

(Calls to the national landline network)